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Harm Reduction Approach to Psych Drugs

Description:
This participatory virtual workshop introduces a model for thinking about psychiatric drugs as neither good nor bad, but as chemicals that can have benefits and also come with risks. A harm reduction approach meets people where they’re at without judgment, supports flexibility, and honors neurodiversity. Through sharing personal stories and opening up dialogue, we can educate and support each other to make more informed choices with less harm.

As non-medical professionals, we are sometimes discouraged from having conversations about psych drugs and are encouraged to “leave it to the professionals.” While we cannot give medical advice or replace the role of doctors, we can offer supportive conversations that explore others’—and our own—relationship to psych drugs. We might also be in a position to advocate with prescribers, friends, and family members to support someone’s self-determination.

This training is fairly interactive, so think about what you'll need to stay present and engaged throughout each session. We recommend that folks join via laptop, desktop, or tablet as smart phones are harder to navigate for this kind of interactive training. We ask that participants have cameras on for the majority of the time, though understand if you need to be off camera for a short amount of time. If you have any accessibility needs, please let us know on the registration form.

This training is free of charge to participants and sponsored by Vermont's Peer Workforce Development Initiative.

Training Schedule:
Tuesday May 2nd and Thursday May 4th, 12:30pm-4:30pm ET each day. We will take two 15-minute breaks during each training session.